Someone died in Massachusetts. Start here.
What to Do When Someone Dies in Massachusetts
The first 24 hours, in order, then the first week and the first month, with Massachusetts's actual rules for death certificates, cremation, and probate. This page is free. No account required.
Sources: official Massachusetts statutes and agencies, linked below. Last full review: June 2026.
The First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours are the hardest. You're in shock. Here's exactly what needs to happen. In order.
The Massachusetts rules that matter this week
These figures come from the same data as our full Massachusetts guide, built from state statutes and official agencies.
Death certificate
Filed within 5 days
The funeral home usually files it. Order 10 or more certified copies; banks, insurers, and agencies each want an original.
Source: Mass.gov - Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ↗Cremation
48-hour wait
Massachusetts requires a permit before cremation. The funeral home or crematory handles the paperwork; you sign the authorization.
Source: Mass.gov - Burial, Cremation, and Funerals ↗Probate
$25,000 small-estate line
Estates under the threshold can use Massachusetts's simplified process instead of full probate.
Source: Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code (MUPC) ↗Estate tax
Yes, this state has one
Massachusetts taxes some estates or inheritances. Most families still owe nothing, but check the guide before distributing anything.
Days 2–7 · 1–7 days
The First Week
The fog is still thick, but decisions have to be made. Here's what needs to happen in the first week.
Weeks 2–4 · 1–4 weeks
The First Month
The acute crisis is over. Now comes the long administrative slog. This is the part nobody warns you about.
The Long Game · 1 month+
Beyond the First Month
Estate administration can take 6–18 months. Here's what the long tail looks like.
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